Juancamilo Ronderos Alvis won’t get to make his sophomore trip to the octagon this weekend. Instead, the UFC flyweight has found himself in hot water with USADA.
On Thursday, USADA (the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency) announced via press release that Ronderos had accepted a one month sanction following an in-competition drug test administered on May 22, 2021. Ronderos (4-1) tested positive for cocaine and its metabolite benzoylecgonine, substances categorized as non-Specified stimulants. Cocaine is prohibited in-competition and considered a substance of abuse under the UFC Anti-Doping Policy.
Ronderos, as mentioned, was supposed to fight at UFC Vegas 33 this Saturday, but had previously withdrawn from the fight. It appears we now know why. After stepping up on short notice against David Dvorak on the UFC’s May 22 card, Ronderos was submitted, and later failed his drug test.
While a suspension for cocaine would normally be longer, Ronderos qualified for a reduced sentence. Per USADA’s release, an athlete qualifies for a reduced sanction “if they can establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the violation did not enhance, and was not intended to enhance, the athlete’s performance in a Bout and they subsequently complete a drug rehabilitation program.”
Ronderos’ suspension is backdated to May 22, 2021, meaning he is already in the clear in terms of returning to competition. At least under USADA. The case will also be reviewed by the NSAC, who are likely to impose their own penalty.
